The Bros. Landreth are back with their highly anticipated sophomore album, ’87.

The band is comprised of brothers Joey and Dave Landreth, accompanied by longtime pals Ryan Voth on drums and Ariel Posen on guitar.

Together they create a smooth and effortless dynamic.

If you’re lucky, you can find these four core members of the Winnipeg music scene supporting other local artists and hitting up late-night venues around town.

While sticking to their rock-country roots, the Bros. delve into a more intentional narrative than on previous album Let It Lie, which was re-released in 2015.

The lyrics on ’87 unfold an intimate story many fans can relate to.

In its entirety, ’87 hooks listeners into tales of love, loss, relationships and struggles with addiction.

“Something” kicks off the album and features an honest look at a lack of vulnerability.

The band’s single, “Good Love,” is a song about longing for love that you’ll be belting out in your car.

“Got To Be You” rips velvety vocals mixed with old-school piano riffs. These first three tracks make you want to crack a cold beer and buckle up for the ride.

As the album progresses, issues get more honest and personal.

“Salvation Bound” is an authentic plea to someone who has hit rock bottom and includes the lyrics “The fridge is empty and the bills piled up/And there’s nothing left for giving up.”

“Sleep Talker” moves back into the reliable, live Bros. Landreth sounds that left fans wanting more after their previous album.

The classic Bros. elements are present throughout ’87, including Joey’s signature vocal runs, perfect harmonies, heavy guitars, keys that mean business and punchy sounds that fans are used to.

What fans may not be expecting is the intimacy of the lyrics and sounds, especially during slower tracks like “Is It Me” and “You Just Keep Letting Me Down.”

The latter is a sobering reality sang with earnest disappointment.

The album focuses on a life afflicted with addiction and all the heavy-hitting issues that come along with it like trying to make a relationship work, false promises and self-criticism.

The album concludes with “Better Now,” a track that suggests the possibility of a hopeful resolution.

This time around, the Bros. cut deeper, bringing fans into a more personal look at the darker side of life.

 

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